Bahrain Pavilion wins Gold Award for Best Architecture and Landscape at Expo 2025 Osaka
Osaka, Oct. 12 (BNA): The Kingdom of Bahrain’s Pavilion, titled "Connecting Seas", has won the Gold Award for Best Architecture and Landscape in the self-built pavilions under 1,500 m² category at Expo 2025 Osaka. The award, presented by the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE), recognises excellence in pavilion design, creativity, and sustainability.
The announcement was made during the official award ceremony held this evening in Osaka, Japan, attended by commissioners general and representatives of participating countries.
Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, President of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA) and Commissioner General of the Bahrain Pavilion, said the award is a testament to the dedication of Team Bahrain in showcasing the Kingdom’s vision of blending heritage with innovation.
"This achievement reflects Bahrain’s position as a hub of cultural and architectural creativity in the region," BACA President said. "The Pavilion embodies sustainable architecture and enriches the visitor experience through sensory journeys that highlight Bahrain’s history and civilisational depth."
He extended his gratitude to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, for their continued support of Bahrain’s cultural and artistic development. He also thanked the Pavilion team and all national entities that contributed to the success of Bahrain’s participation at the Expo, noting that the recognition reflects the Kingdom’s spirit of collaboration and creativity.
Designed by Lebanese architect Lina Ghotmeh, the Pavilion is constructed mainly from wood and cooled naturally by the sea breeze, making it one of the most sustainable structures at the Expo. Located in the Empowering Lives zone, it spans 995 square metres across four levels, rising 13.7 metres and overlooking the sea.
Visitors are taken on a multi-sensory journey through exhibitions curated by the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities in collaboration with Shepherd Studio, Sissel Tolaas, Hassan Hujairi, and La Méduse, exploring Bahrain’s connections through trade, crafts, pearling, and ecology. The Pavilion’s visual identity was developed by Quby Creative Consultants.
The Pavilion café features seasonal menus blending Bahraini and Japanese flavours, curated by award-winning Bahraini chef Tala Bashmi. An exhibition by the Economic Development Board (EDB) highlights Bahrain’s strategic location and role as a global hub for investment.
Staff and volunteers wear uniforms designed by Bahraini fashion designer Lulwa Al Ameen, inspired by coastal motifs, while the gift shop offers exclusive items reflecting Bahrain’s heritage, produced in collaboration with Qirtas.
Further details are available on the official websites www.bahrainpavilion2025.bh
and www.culture.gov.bh, as well as through the official social media accounts @CultureBah and @bahatexpo.
